How to Find Design Ideas for Decks

Whether you are designing and building it yourself or preparing to sit down with a landscape architect, you'll need some idea of the type of deck you want. Here are some ideas for finding the creative inspiration you'll need.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Measuring Tapes
• Design Magazines
• Home Improvement Magazines
• Sketchbooks
• Cameras
• Cameras

1. Look in books and magazines about decks and carpentry as well as architecture, interior design and travel. Scan the photos for decks (and other details).

2. Sketch, photograph and measure decks that you like.

3. Take a walk or drive through an upscale neighborhood (where the professional designers have been at work) and look at the decks instead of the houses.

4. Watch videos and TV with a pad in hand so you can record any inspirations that flash past.

5. Ask local carpenters to direct you to their best work in the area.

6. Make a diagram of the activities that you'd like to enjoy on your deck ' dining, lounging, gathering a group of friends - and build a deck around these.

7. Hire a landscape architect or a carpenter to help you.

Tips & Warnings

• Decks are structural elements that require proper construction. See 'eHow to Know When to Hire a Landscape Professional' under Related eHows.